Northern Ireland fans receive Paris medal tonight

Mayor of Paris will present the fans with the Medal as a mark of gratitude

Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo will acknowledge the "exemplary behaviour" of Northern Ireland fans during the city with the Medal of the City of Paris award this evening.

Representatives from the Amalgamation of Official Northern Ireland Supporters’ Clubs and the Irish Football Association are set to receive the medal on behalf of the thousands of supporters who traveled to France last month.

Northern Ireland's narrow defeats to both Germany and Wales came in France's capital, but the fans were widely praised for their excellent behaviour in the city which was appreciated by both the locals and fans of rival sides.

The award comes due to the 'exemplary attitude, fair play, enthusiasm and good humour' of the Green and White Army.

The medal to be received is the Grand Vermail - regarded as the most prestigious honour in the city.

In a letter to Northern Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster, Madame Hidalgo said: “From the beginning of the Euro 2016 football tournament, in all the cities concerned in France and particularly in Paris, your supporters displayed exemplary behaviour.

“While the practice of international football is, unfortunately, sometimes marred by rudeness, excesses or even violence, Northern Ireland supporters showed us all, to our great benefit, what supporting a country and a sport truly means.

“For all these reasons, on behalf of all Parisians and as a mark of respect and gratitude I have decided to award the Medal of the City of Paris to those citizens of Northern Ireland who came to support their team in our capital.”

First Minister Arlene Foster said today: “I am immensely proud of all the Northern Ireland supporters who travelled to France to support the Northern Ireland team with such loyalty, passion and enthusiasm.

“I commend our Green and White Army for their outstanding behaviour throughout the team’s time in the tournament and for the consideration and kindness shown to their hosts. Their sense of fun, spirit, banter and chanting won admiration, respect and friendship and showcased Northern Ireland once again at its very best.

“I am delighted Mayor Hidalgo has chosen to recognise the Northern fans with this prestigious award.